Are faddy diets harmful?

Low-carb diet

Why do it?

Low carbohydrate diets are lower calorie and tend to have a high content of protein, which is stomach-filling and satisfying.

What can go wrong?

If you cut out too much carbohydrate, you may find your energy flagging. Your cholesterol levels can rise and too much protein may put a strain on the kidneys, too.

Keep safe

Halve your carbohydrate portions, rather than cut them out altogether, and go for the whole-grain type, which are slower releasing, filling you up for longer. Also have lots of vegetables, salad or fruit.

Click here for our guide to the GI diet